Collection of Rare Ornithological Inspired Music Boxes Highlight June Auction

The collection is comprised of approximately ten automaton boxes made of the finest silver and multicolor enamel, some of which are set with a variety of emeralds, garnets and diamonds (estimates range from $1,000-8,000). Photo: Bonhams & Butterfields.

LOS ANGELES, CA.-Bonhams & Butterfields is to offer a selection of unusual gem-set, singing bird music boxes during the firms Fine European Furniture and Decorative Arts sale on June 13, 2011 in Los Angeles. The collection is comprised of approximately ten automaton boxes made of the finest silver and multicolor enamel, some of which are set with a variety of emeralds, garnets and diamonds (estimates range from $1,000-8,000).

In addition, the 550-lot sale will offer an array of works for varied tastes and collecting levels, from the 16th through the 20th centuries, with a focus on English, French, Italian, Spanish and German properties. Highlights from the auction include a strong selection of porcelain, enamels and silver from noted makers such as Barbedienne, Bayre, Buccellati, Carrier-Belleuse, Carpeaux, Christofle, Georg Jensen, KPM, Meissen, Moreau Family, Sevres and Tiffany & Co.

Porcelain works of note include a Meissen armorial tureen and cover, decorated with figural handles figures (est. $8,000-12,000); a KPM plaque depicting Psyche (est. $4,000-6,000), one of a several of highly sought after plaques in the sale; and a pair of late 19th century French gilt bronze mounted porcelain urns painted with exotic birds (est. $3,000-5,000), among others.

Also available during the spring auction is a strong selection of silver. The offering boasts a very rare Irish George IV salver with an equestrian theme by James Fray (est. $12,000-18,000); a substantial Buccellati flatware set (est. $10,000-15,000) and a seven pint pitcher with complimentary under tray, monogrammed J.B. Van N, 1913 (est. $3,000-4,000).

The robust clock section is highlighted by a William and Mary walnut marquetry tall case clock by one of the most important makers of the late 17th/early 18th centuries, Christopher Gould (est. $20,000-40,000). The piece was once featured as lot 29 of the famous Wetherfield Collection clock auction on May 1, 1928 and is inscribed on the dial by the maker.

Additional time keeping highlights include an impressive 8-foot tall Queen Anne seaweed marquetry and walnut tall case clock by Samuel Dryer, London (est. $6,000-8,000) and a George II lacquered tall case clock by John Burputt, London (est. $4,000-6,000), among others.

A robust selection of English and French furniture will also be offered during the June 13th sale. Included within the works of note are pieces by some of the most important Parisian makers such as François Linke, John François Alix and Guilliame Grohe. Highlights include a magnificent vitrine cabinet by Grohe (est. $75,000-100,000); a Louis XV/XVI transitional style gilt bronze mounted commode by Linke (est. $45,000-65,000) and a wonderful Louis XV style rosewood and mahogany marble top cabinet by Alix (est. $30,000-50,000), as well as property from the Estate of director, writer, producer and actor, Tim Whelan and his wife, actress and Los Angeles interior decorator, Miriam Seegar.